Team USA Claims Victory at II World Arena Polo Championship in Historic First for North America
Table of Contents
The United States men’s polo team secured a thrilling victory at the II World Arena Polo Championship, hosted by the International Polo Federation (FIP) on October 12 in Virginia. This landmark event marked the first time the prestigious international competition has been held on North American soil, signaling a growing interest in the sport within the region.
A Week of Intense Competition Culminates in a Dramatic Final
The championship brought together six international teams for a week of rigorous competition, culminating in a sold-out final match between the United States and Argentina. The American trio – Kareem Rosser, Patrick Uretz, and Jarod Sheldon – demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork, ultimately prevailing with a final score of 16-14.
Uretz Named Tournament MVP
Beyond the team’s collective success, individual brilliance was also recognized. Patrick Uretz was awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP) title for his outstanding performance throughout the tournament. His contributions were instrumental in securing the championship for Team USA.
US Polo Assn. Champions Global Sport Development
The commitment to expanding the reach of arena polo was evident throughout the event, with US Polo Assn. serving as the official clothing partner. The brand outfitted all players and referees in personalized apparel, including t-shirts and caps, demonstrating a dedication to the sport’s growth.
According to a company release, J.Michael Prince, President and CEO of USPA Global, emphasized that the US Polo Association’s sponsorship exemplifies “our brand’s deep commitment to promoting the spread of polo across all playing fields.”
Strategic Alliance Fuels International Growth
The successful staging of the championship underscores a strong partnership between the US Polo Association and the FIP. A member of the FIP Board of Directors highlighted the alliance, stating that the US Polo Association “continues to be an important partner for the Federation of International Polo (FIP), helping us bring visibility to international events and showcase the future of arena polo.”
Expanding the Sport’s Global Footprint
The tournament’s design, focused on delivering a fast-paced and immersive experience, reflects a shared vision between the FIP and USPA to broaden the sport’s appeal and presence worldwide. This victory for Team USA, coupled with the successful hosting of the event, positions arena polo for continued growth and recognition on the international stage.
Keywords: Arena Polo, US Polo Assn., FIP, Team USA.
